In a terrifying shooting on campus, witness McKenzie Heeter described fleeing the scene after seeing the gunman, identified as the stepson of a deputy, shoot a woman and injure several others.

The shooting, which left two people dead and six others injured—including one critically—has sent shockwaves through the campus community, raising fears about safety in a place typically viewed as secure. The gunman, armed with a handgun and shotgun, was subdued by law enforcement before being hospitalized for non-life-threatening injuries. As details emerge, the chilling account of Heeter, who was just feet away when the violence erupted, underscores the urgent need for discussions around campus safety and gun access.

Heeter's unsettling encounter began when she noticed the suspect, wearing an orange shirt, before he shot a woman wearing purple scrubs from behind, an act that caught her completely off guard. The chaos unfolded quickly, forcing Heeter into a panic-induced response as she sought safety.

In recounting her escape, Heeter stated, 'I ran a four-minute mile in sandals,' capturing the fear that propelled her away from the scene. Many witnesses reported similar feelings of terror, which have left an indelible mark on their sense of security at the university. The attack occurred in a location usually bustling with students and staff, making it all the more shocking for those present.

The immediate aftermath of the shooting saw first responders rush to the scene, quickly assessing the situation. Investigators have confirmed that two individuals lost their lives in this tragic event. Neither of the deceased were students; however, the identity of the victims has not been disclosed at this time. The six injured include one person who was in critical condition but has since been upgraded to fair condition.

Law enforcement officials have stated that the gunman was engaged by officers and sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the confrontation. He has been identified as the stepson of a local sheriff's deputy, raising questions about gun access and control within the community. Following the incident, authorities recovered multiple weapons, including a handgun that belonged to the gunman's stepmother and the shotgun he had.

As Heeter attempted to find solace after the incident, her first inclination was to contact her mother. That call not only reassured her family but also highlighted the immediate pressure and emotional toll experienced by witnesses like herself in the wake of such violent acts. 'I just wanted to let her know I was okay,' Heeter recounted, reflecting on the urgency in her voice amidst the chaos unfolding around her.

The broader campus community has been deeply affected by the incident, prompting discussions about safety measures and the need for enhanced protocols to prevent such events in the future. Heeter has voiced that her feeling of safety has been shattered since the shooting, a sentiment echoed by many fellow students who are grappling with the shock of the day’s events.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Campus officials have stated that they are committed to ensuring the safety of all students and staff. Counseling services are being made available to assist anyone in need.

In light of this tragic incident, heightened security measures may be implemented in the coming weeks. As the investigation progresses, the campus community is left to reckon with its vulnerabilities and devise solutions that can restore a sense of safety and normalcy. The discussions that arise will be crucial in shaping preventative strategies and addressing concerns surrounding gun access.